Supporting Clinical Social Work

University of Denver Graduate School of Social Work (GSSW) alumna Jana Edwards (MSW ’78, LCSW, BCD) supports GSSW’s vision to become one of the nation’s best clinical social work programs. That vision is closer to reality thanks to a new bequest from Edwards and her husband, Rick Poppe.

Their bequest intention of $500,000 for the GSSW Clinical Chair Fund honors Edwards’ lifelong commitment to clinical social work education. For over 20 years, Edwards has led a robust community fundraising campaign for the clinical chair, which also resulted in creation of GSSW’s Clinical Master Teacher Award in 2019.

GSSW Dean Henrika McCoy says, “Jana Edwards has had an exemplary clinical social work career and is considered by her peers to be one of the profession’s most distinguished clinicians. We are grateful for her leadership and commitment to GSSW and shaping the future of social work. This generous leadership gift will help to ensure the continuation of our exceptional clinical social work program and will inspire other alumni and community members to consider how GSSW can play a role in their legacies.”

Approximately 80% of GSSW students enter the school intending to become a clinical social worker, and mental health is GSSW’s most in-demand specialization. According to Edwards, GSSW’s continual rise in the U.S. News and World Report rankings (GSSW is ranked No. 12) is connected to whether the school prioritizes the training of clinical social workers. She explains, “The final element that GSSW needs to provide the most sought-after clinical social work program in the country is a clinical chair.”

McCoy adds, “As a member of our inaugural philanthropic Dean’s Circle, Jana’s leadership and dedication will help guide GSSW’s direction, ensuring continued excellence in teaching, research and community impact.”